Abstract

Background Dental students are reporting increasing levels of stress and anxiety. Personal networks may help students to address this. Aims & Objectives To explore dental students perceptions of their preparedness for study and networks of support. Materials and Methods Following ethical approval, a cross-sectional survey was undertaken using an online questionnaire. The questionnaire was designed by staff and students and examined levels of agreement with a range of statements relating to preparedness for studying dentistry, chosen support in times of stress and the relationship between themselves and their peers. Undergraduate dental students (all years) were invited to participate anonymously via an electronic link over a 12 week period in 2016. Descriptive analyses were undertaken. Results A total of 109 students participated with more females than males participating. Half (n=55, 50%) reported that they were well prepared for studying dentistry but only a few reported that they knew a lot about dentistry before starting the course. Those with family members who were dental registrants were no better prepared for the course than other students. Over 60% reported having experienced stress. Students commonly sought help and advice, most often from family (n=76, 70%) and from other students (n=67, 61%). Most reported that their peers were friendly (n=100, 92%), supportive (=n=85, 78%) but also competitive (n=70, 64%). A small number of students (n=17, 16%) reported that their peers made them feel alienated. Conclusions Dental students often feel prepared for their chosen course despite knowing little about it. When there are problems they often prefer to seek help from family and peers. Wider information extending to family and peers may be helpful for supporting students during their dental course.